Santa Barbara Zoo is the first zoo on the West Coast to become a Certified Autism Center (CAC), which is a designation that demonstrates the Zoo’s commitment to ensuring guests and families with children who have autism have the best possible experience.
“We are thrilled to be certified by IBCCES and are proud to be able to better meet the needs of individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Zoo Camp and other education programs, and many guest experiences, have long been accessible, but this integrates our commitment into the everyday visitor experience,” said J.J. McLeod, Zoo School Director. “By dedicating quiet spaces, offering sensory backpacks, and offering specialized staff training, we hope the autism community feels even more safe, supported, and welcome here.”
Research shows that new experiences such as travel and interacting with animals are some of the most intellectually stimulating events for individuals on the spectrum, but there are still few trained and certified options for families looking for organizations able to accommodate their specific needs and have an understanding of how to work with those families.
“Making sure that families and individuals on the spectrum or those with sensory needs have trained and certified options to visit is critical to those individuals not only having peace of mind, but also helps ensure they have an incredible experience,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Our Certified Autism Center designation is awarded to premier organizations who have completed rigorous training and meet the highest industry standards, and we’re excited to be working with the Santa Barbara Zoo.”
Santa Barbara Zoo will also be listed with other CACs on AutismMember.org, a partnership between IBCCES and Autism Society to connect families and individuals with businesses and resources committed to serving individuals on the spectrum.
About Santa Barbara Zoo
Known as one of the world’s most beautiful zoos, the Santa Barbara Zoo is located on 30 acres of botanic gardens and is home to nearly 500 individual animals in open, naturalistic habitats. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), representing the highest level of animal care, and participates in AZA cooperative programs for endangered species including Asian elephant, California condor, Channel Island fox, and Western lowland gorilla, among others. The Santa Barbara Zoo is the region’s top visitor attraction, attracting nearly 500,000 guests yearly, and has more than 13,000 members. Visit www.sbzoo.org.
IBCCES Accessibility Card Now Available as a Mobile App